So, I don't know how many of you have heard about the latest girl from Florida who was apparently taken from her own bed .. but I'm officially creeped out.
Even though I don't necessarily live anywhere near where Jessica Lunsford was taken from, or near where the latest victim lived ... it SERIOUSLY creeps me out.
I can't help but wonder how many other times this happens, and what it takes for it to be "high profile" enough to hear about it if you don't live near the area that it happened. When Elizabeth Smart was taken, I think part of the reason it was on National news so quickly was because of how unbelievable it is.
This is the one time I don't mind that my 4 year old spends most nights in bed with me.
I think part of the reason it's making me worry so much is because this is really the first time I've lived on my own with Juliette. I have an alarm system, but it doesn't always ease my worries. The house across the street from ours is now in foreclosure, and the house two doors down is empty as the woman tries to decide if she wants to sell her father's old home. I feel vulnerable.
This week, I'm adding an extra lock on both front and back doors. I think it's just going to be a chain lock, I haven't reall decided, but I want it up just incase my daughter decides she wants to go for a late night walk or something.
I wish I could say I knew all my neighbors. There is one guy who honestly gives me the creeps when he walks by. And well, they usually say a mother's instinct are right. I don't know what it is about this guy, but he seems "off". He also likes to play with the kids in the neighborhood, and you don't want to lable someone just because you don't think it's normal, but well, I don't think it's normal for a grown man to play with little kids. That's weird, right?
I honestly remember growing up, in the same neighborhood, and my mom had us play outside. All the time. I don't feel comfortable letting Juliette play on the front porch most days.
Creeped out
February 16th, 2009 at 07:36 pm
February 16th, 2009 at 08:12 pm 1234815144
That's because what we perceive as "safe" and "unsafe", and whether it objectively is or not are two different matters. We can feel unsafe in a safe environment (such as in normal, well-maintained airplane) and we can feel safe in an unsafe environment (some homes).
What makes matters worse is the fact that, because we feel safe in certain comfort zones, we also do not spend perhaps the amount of time and effort needed to make sure that our security measures are indeed up to some reasonable standards. Again, the home typically lacks in that way as well.
It's just something to think about. I'm glad that you're taking your safety serious though!
February 16th, 2009 at 08:45 pm 1234817141
February 16th, 2009 at 09:36 pm 1234820161
February 16th, 2009 at 09:36 pm 1234820176
February 16th, 2009 at 10:20 pm 1234822810
February 17th, 2009 at 01:30 am 1234834224
Don't forget to check the windows too. There are all kinds of simple safety devices available at Home Depot and many are inexpensive.
February 26th, 2009 at 10:21 pm 1235686880
It's just scary to be worried in your own home.
February 27th, 2009 at 11:40 pm 1235778042
Not all men who like to play with kids are predators. My stepdad is a coach and will kick a soccer ball around with the neighbor kids. He's an educator. BUT, if the guy you're seeing creeps you out then listen to your inner gut.